Feb. 4, 2022

COVID-19 update

Our COVID-positive census reached a grim milestone this week, topping 200 for the first time.

Our positivity rate continues to slightly decline, hovering near 35%, but new case numbers remain high. We have lost a total of 932 lives to COVID-19 as of Friday morning.

As we continue to set all-time highs each week, I worry about our staff. I know they are weary and drained two years into the pandemic.

This week, we partnered with Burrell Behavioral Health to hold our first three interactive virtual “Be Well” sessions, which give staff a chance to experience the benefits of self-care, mindfulness and connection. The events are part of an ongoing effort to support staff mental health.

I am grateful for help from our mental health partners, as well as the counseling support offered through our longstanding Employee Assistance Program. There are times when I fear it may not be enough as the pandemic drags on.

With the winter storm this week, I was reminded again of the sacrifice our caregivers and staff members make. Dozens of clinical and support staff gave up time with their families to spend the night in our hospitals so they can serve our patients.

I continue to be inspired by the resolve and courage of our teams and the light they offer in a time of darkness. We will continue to do everything we can to support those who give their all for our patients. They matter so much to our community.

Boosted people are 97 times less likely to die from COVID-19

The numbers make it clear: Boosters are key to saving lives. New data from the Centers for Disease Control shows that people who have received a booster are 97 times less likely to die from COVID-19. Those who are fully vaccinated, but not boosted, are 14 times less likely to die, compared to the unvaccinated.

We will share these statistics widely to remind everyone of the importance of boosters in protecting ourselves and our community.

Published research from CoxHealth

I am grateful for the research coming out of CoxHealth, including groundbreaking work on COVID-19. Dr. Robin Trotman was the principal investigator and an author on a research study recently published in The Lancet, a leading scientific journal.

The study focused on passive immunotherapy using hyperimmune intravenous immunoglobulin. What a thrill to see coordinated research across the globe - Germany, Japan, U.K., Denmark, Spain and CoxHealth!

Inside our new infusion center

This week, we shared a new video from the recently opened Sue Dalton Chemotherapy Infusion Center.

The new space on the second floor of the Hulston Cancer Center allows our patients to receive life-saving infusions in an expanded, welcoming space that overlooks Schaible Lake Park. A special thank you goes to the Daltons on being the lead donors for this project. You can see video of the new facility at this link.

Voice of the patient

From inpatient feedback at Cox South: “The staff came frequently to check on me and help me. The nursing staff was amazing! Thank you!”

Thank you for all you do,
Steve

Direct Line from Steve Edwards: 2/4/22